Honda’s 2013 lineup includes new CRF450R

June 11, 2012

Honda announced several additions to its 2013 model-year lineup, including several all-new Hondas to go along with the return of a number of off-road favorites.

“These exciting new models really illustrate the engineering capabilities that Honda brings to bear in all segments of the powersports market,” said American Honda powersports press manager Bill Savino. “The radical CRF450R is a potent, game-changing ride for those who are serious about 450-class motocross racing, the CRF250R is the next step forward from the bike that won both Supercross Lites championships in 2012, and the CRF150R race bike continues to set the pace in its class. The all-new CRF250L and CRF110F demonstrate the power of Honda engineering to offer exceptional value to consumers; the CRF250L is a very cool and capable dual-sport model with strong off-road credentials, while the introduction of the electric-start, automatic-clutch CRF110F that replaces the CRF70F represents some out-of-the-box thinking. In addition, Honda’s incredibly popular family of small-displacement recreational off-road bikes, the CRF230F, CRF150F, CRF100F, CRF80F and CRF50F, offers a perfect size for all beginners. Of course, Honda has a long history of bringing innovative ideas and great values to the market, and we’ll see that again as we release even more models later this year.”

Following is a closer look at some of the latest new models.

The new-for-2013 CRF450R features an all-new aluminum frame and suspension package. It will be available in September at an as-yet-unannounced retail price.

CRF450R — With the 2013 CRF450R, Honda elevates the level of performance for 450-class motocross machines. This brand-new machine features a rolling chassis fully focused on meeting the needs of today’s “scrub generation” of riders by integrating an all-new aluminum frame along with an innovative suspension package, plus a strategically engineered short dual-muffler exhaust system that tucks in closely to the center of mass. Designed from the get-go as a total package that would be eminently flickable, responsive and lightweight, every element in the 2013 CRF450R chassis has been focused on attaining a low center of gravity along with class-leading mass centralization. The new-concept KYB PSF (Pneumatic Spring Fork) is significantly lighter and it allows incorporation of a larger, more sophisticated 32mm cartridge damper piston that resets traditional thinking for front suspension performance. That’s matched with a new single-shock Pro-Link rear suspension, plus a revised engine that churns out an awe-inspiring hit in the low-end and midrange along with massive top-end power. There’s also a new six-spring clutch, a stouter transmission and much, much more.
SRP: TBD
Availability: September 2012

CRF250R — Even with winning both Supercross Lites championships in 2012, Honda understands the never-ending need to push designs forward to stay competitive. To that end, the new CRF250R incorporates changes to its powerplant and suspension that help kick it up to the next level for 2013. Recalibrated fuel injection settings have given the CRF250R a bigger hit and more response in the low-end and midrange — this in an engine already noted for its broad powerband and an amazing, right-now power response.
SRP: TBD
Availability: August 2012

CRF250L — With the CRF250L, Honda reintroduces the concept of a 250-class dual-sport motorcycle. This is a machine that’s more than ready to take on some serious off-road challenges without giving up street-riding accommodations. The compact and sophisticated liquid-cooled DOHC 249cc single-cylinder powerplant produces smooth and consistent torque at low rpm to aid off-road work, yet the short-stroke engine also spins up excellent high-rpm performance for the street.
SRP: $4,499
Availability: August 2012

CRF110F — Leave it to Honda to expand the notion of what a beginner bike should be. The popular CRF70F has long held a place of honor among Honda’s family of fun, entry-level off-road bikes, but now the CRF110F takes over that slot in the lineup. The CRF110F features a low seat height, modest size, and a four-speed transmission with an automatic clutch on par with the CRF70F that it replaces.
SRP: TBD
Availability: Fall 2012

CRF150R/RB — Younger racers may be smaller in stature, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a giant-sized heart for racing — and winning. So for these younger racers, Honda designed the CRF150R/RB as an integral part of the CRF racing lineup. This is the full-on racing machine, with a high-output 149cc liquid-cooled four-valve four-stroke engine with exceptional torque and drivability throughout the powerband. The championship-caliber chassis includes race-tuned suspension components with plenty of travel front and rear, all set to take on the toughest tracks around.
SRP: CRF150R $4,990; CRF150RB $5,140
Availability: July 2012